#vmas 2003

[imaslave4u]

Britney and Madonna opening the MTV Video Music Awards (August 28, 2003)

[coutureicons]

[gaykarstaagforever]

August 28th of this year (2023) was the 20th anniversary of that time during the 2003 VMAs when Madonna kissed Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera during a live performance.

When Madonna kissed Spears, the broadcast cut to this reaction shot of Justin Timberlake, who had just broken up with Spears:

1) It is a really quick cut because Madonna immediately kissed Aguilera after Spears, and the live broadcast producer missed it because of the Timberlake shot. They cut right back to the performance but it was too late.

2) Justin utterly does not care. Why would he? This cut was entirely for the benefit of all the 12 year olds watching from home who saw Madonna kiss Spears and thought, "OMG JUSTIN WILL BE SO MAD!", because they are 12 and idiots. What, he would suddenly think they were dating? It's a performance. Even if he thought they were now married lesbians, this is a show he understands they have rehearsed. What other reaction besides 'none' would he ever have? Kendu Isaacs to his right agrees, 100%. And also looks a little sleepy.

2) Mary J. Blige, however, who as far as I know has never dated either Madonna nor Britney Spears, and also knows what a "performance" is, looks concerned. I have no idea why.

3) Behind her, Carson Kressley (Queer Eye for the Straight Guy) looks about as happy as a queer man can look. I know EXACTLY why.

The irony that only the gay man is thoroughly enjoying a sapphic kiss being broadcast live on American basic cable is one of the ironies of life back in 2003.

[pro-royalty]

Mya x VMA’s 2003

[joyexe]

Madison Beer paying homage to Beyoncé with the Dolce & Gabbana 2003 Powder Pink Lace Up Dress.

[boyt0yy]

britney X vmas 2003

[yveshanelaurent]

VMA’s 2003 Promotion

[itsallmadonnasfault]

@fkaneedle this cultural reset turns 17 years old today